In this course, the student will read selections from the large body of scholarly texts that have been written about Southeast Asia. Expository and argumentative essays by premier scholars such as Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, Margaret Mead, Clifford Geertz, and Benedict Anderson will be examined. Discussions will cover a broad range of theoretical issues including power, gender, and space. This course satisfies the second half of the Reading and Composition requirement.

In this Reading and Composition seminar we will be exploring secondary research related to the origins and spread of nationalism throughout mainland and maritime Southeast Asia. We will chart the growth of the idea of the nation from its beginnings in early modern Europe; to its spread to Southeast Asia under British, French, Dutch and American colonial rule; to its mobilization as the primary ideology of anti-colonial revolution in the region; and, finally, its enshrinement as the basis for the modern-day nation-states of Burma, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines. In the process, we will read, write, compare, and refine our ideas about the development of a peculiarly modern phenomenon that has major implications for our lives today.

Requisites

• Previously passed an R_A course with a letter grade of C- or better. Previously passed an articulated R_A course with a letter grade of C- or better. Score a 4 on the Advanced Placement Exam in English Literature and Composition. Score a 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement Exam in English Language and Composition. Score of 5, 6, or 7 on the International Baccalaureate Higher Level Examination in English.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills